Apricot Jam Crumble Bars

An Easy Dessert That’s Both Classic and Crowd-Pleasing

Looking for a no-fuss dessert that’s as satisfying as it is nostalgic? These Apricot Jam Crumble Bars bring all the cozy, old-fashioned charm of a fruit cobbler in a portable, sliceable form. With a buttery oat crust, sweet apricot jam center, and a golden crumb topping, they’re perfect for everything from picnics and potlucks to afternoon snacks and bake sales.

Even better? They come together quickly using pantry staples and can be customized with your favorite jam or fruit spread.

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📌 Why You’ll Love These Apricot Jam Bars

• ✅ Easy to make with one bowl and no mixer required

• ✅ Versatile – great with any jam

• ✅ Sturdy enough to slice and stack

• ✅ Perfectly sweet, buttery, and crumbly

• ✅ Great for freezing or gifting

Whether you’re baking for a casual get-together or meal prepping treats for the week, this is a go-to recipe you’ll reach for again and again.

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🛒 Ingredients for Apricot Jam Crumble Bars

Dry Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups old-fashioned rolled oats

• ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)

• ¼ cup granulated sugar

• ½ tsp baking powder

• ¼ tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

• ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Filling

• ¾ to 1 cup apricot jam (use homemade or high-quality store-bought)

💡 Tip: For a more tart flavor, use a low-sugar apricot jam or blend in a tablespoon of lemon juice.

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🍑 How to Make Apricot Jam Crumble Bars

Step-by-Step Instructions

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1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.

2. Make the Crumble Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, white sugar, baking powder, and salt. Stir until evenly mixed.

Add the melted butter and vanilla extract. Stir with a fork or spatula until crumbly and moist—you want sandy clumps, not a smooth dough.

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3. Press the Crust

Transfer about two-thirds of the mixture into your prepared baking pan. Use a flat-bottomed cup or your hands to press it down firmly into an even crust.

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4. Add the Apricot Jam

Spread the apricot jam evenly over the crust. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent overflow while baking.

🍊 Want more fruit texture? Mix in diced dried apricots or a spoonful of orange zest.

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5. Add the Crumble Topping

Sprinkle the remaining oat mixture evenly over the jam layer. Leave some larger clumps for that rustic crumble effect.

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6. Bake and Cool

Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling slightly.

Let cool completely in the pan (at least 1 hour), then lift out using parchment overhang and slice into bars.

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❄️ How to Store Apricot Jam Crumble Bars

🧊 Freezing Tip: Freeze on a tray, then transfer to a zip-top bag for grab-and-go portions.

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🧁 Serving Ideas for Apricot Jam Bars

• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy snack

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert

• Include in a brunch board with fresh fruit and pastries

• Wrap individually for lunchbox treats or party favors

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🔁 Flavor Variations & Substitutions

Switch the Jam

Try raspberry, strawberry, fig, or cherry jam for a different flavor profile.

Make It Nutty

Mix ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds into the crumble topping for crunch.

Add Spice

Add ½ tsp cinnamon or ginger to the oat mixture for warm, spiced flavor.

Go Gluten-Free

Use a gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free oats to make it GF-friendly.

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❓ FAQs – Apricot Jam Crumble Bars

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Can I use quick oats instead of rolled oats?

Quick oats will work, but they produce a softer, less textured crumble. For the best crumbly result, stick with old-fashioned rolled oats.

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Can I reduce the sugar even more?

Yes. You can cut the sugar in the crumble by about 25% and still get good flavor, especially if using a low-sugar apricot jam.

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Why is my crust crumbly or falling apart?

Be sure to firmly press the crust into the pan before baking. Also, allow the bars to cool completely before cutting—they firm up as they cool.

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Can I make these bars vegan?

Absolutely! Just swap in plant-based butter for a fully dairy-free and vegan treat.

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Can I double the recipe?

Yes, for a crowd, you can double the ingredients and bake in a 9×13-inch pan. Increase the baking time to about 35–38 minutes.

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🌟 Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Stunning Dessert

These Apricot Jam Crumble Bars offer the perfect balance of sweet fruitiness, buttery crumble, and rustic charm. They’re ideal for those moments when you want something homemade and heartfelt—without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re packing them for a picnic, plating them for a party, or sneaking one with your afternoon coffee, these bars are sure to become a repeat favorite.